Afanasyev Konstantin Yakovlevich – Portrait of Vasily Plavilschikov Hermitage ~ Part 01

The drawing presents a bust-length portrait of a man, rendered in meticulous detail through cross-hatching and stippling techniques. The subject is positioned slightly off-center, facing towards the viewer with a direct gaze that conveys both intelligence and a certain reserve. His expression is thoughtful, perhaps even melancholic; the slight downturn of his mouth contributes to this impression.
The man’s hair is styled in a manner characteristic of the early nineteenth century – neatly trimmed but with a natural wave. He wears a dark, double-breasted coat over a light-colored shirt and waistcoat, the collar of which is visible at his neck. The artist has paid close attention to the texture of the fabrics, using varying densities of lines to suggest the sheen of the coat and the crispness of the shirt.
The composition is restrained; there are no extraneous details to distract from the subject’s presence. This simplicity reinforces a sense of dignity and seriousness. The background is plain, allowing the viewers focus to remain entirely on the individual depicted.
Beneath the image, script identifies the man as Vasilii Alekseevich Plavilshchikov. The formal nature of this inscription suggests that this is an official or commemorative portrait, intended to record his likeness for posterity. The careful execution and dignified presentation imply a person of some standing within society – perhaps a scholar, administrator, or member of the aristocracy.
The overall effect is one of quiet authority and intellectual depth. It’s not merely a representation of physical features; it aims to convey something about the mans character and position in the world.